The six-cylinder ECOLINE+ reciprocating compressors for CO2 transcritical applications feature new motor technology and mechanical capacity control to help boost system efficiency.

“CO2 is one of the refrigerants of the future – we believe that wholeheartedly. That’s because this refrigerant boasts a global warming potential of 1, making it virtually climate-neutral,” said Rainer Groβe-Kracht, Bitzer’s chief technology officer.

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CO2 is one of the refrigerants of the future."- Rainer Groβe-Kracht, Bitzer

The German company has been investing in CO2 subcritical and transcritical technology for over 20 years. “It takes time to build a sustainable business model around it, but now the majority of our investment is going to natural refrigerants,” said Groβe-Kracht.

The ECOLINE+ is fitted with intelligent ‘IQ modules’ that integrate the compressor into refrigeration systems more effectively. Its line-start permanent-magnet motor (LSPM) – tested over the last five years and incorporated into CO2 production lines in time for Chillventa – increases motor efficiency in full and part-load operation.

“We would like to make efficient CO2 technology simpler and easier to understand again, and thus significantly expand the range of applications with this forward-looking refrigerant,” Groβe-Kracht said.

In the context of ongoing global f-gas phase-down discussions this week in Rwandan capital Kigali, Bitzer argue that opting for the CO2 gives customers regulatory certainty. “Users gain long-term planning security in terms of legal requirements such as the EU’s F-Gas Regulation and Eco-Design Directive,” said Groβe-Kracht.

Chillventa 2016 is taking place in the German city of Nuremburg from 11-13 October.